Cyclone ‘Nivar’ – Dos and Don’ts to Stay Safe Before, During and After the Cyclone

As cyclone named ‘Nivar’ is moving at a considerable speed and is heading for Tamil Nadu coast, and the regional meteorological center has predicted heavy rains and winds in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Cuddalore districts. It is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm during the next 24 hours.

Fishermen are already advised against venturing into the sea. In view of turbulent weather forecasts, here is the list of what can be expected and Do’s and Don’ts to be followed to stay safe and protected.

What can be expected for those in the path of Cyclone Nivar?

1. Winds raging between 90 – 110-km per hour at the time of landfall
2. Disruption to telecommunications lines and power due to strong winds
3. Disconnection of internet, satellite TV and cellular phone services
4. Temporary disruption to rail and air travel
5. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall with squally winds at the time of landfall (up to 2 hours till the storm crosses the region)
6. Extensive damage to thatched roofed houses, homes with asbestos sheets and tinned roofs
7. Dislodging of the roofs and temporary shelters.
8. Inundation of parking spaces, low-lying areas and fields
9. Wet walls, leaking roofs and breaking of glass panes of windows, leading to a splintering of small glass pieces
10. Storm surge can bring saline water to farms
11. Uprooting of trees and felling of weak branches, which can cause road closures

Here is the list of Do’s

1. Loose things outside your house should be tied or moved indoors
2. Switch off gas supply and electrical mains when the cyclone is crossing
3. Keep your mobile phones (to ensure connectivity), power banks and emergency lights charged
4. Listen to radio, watch TV, read newspapers for the latest weather updates
5. Keep your documents and valuables (jewelry, etc.) in a plastic bag or any water-proof containers
6. Inspect battery operated reserve power systems like inverters  regularly
7. Disconnect the power supply of all non-emergency equipment and tools
8. Store drinking water (in a clean place) and drink chlorinated or boiled water only
9. Prepare an emergency kit with essential items (including medical supplies and first aid kit) for safety and survival
10. Keep  pets, cattle or any animals sheltered
11. If your house is not safe, relocate yourselves to a pre-determined or administration-determined location
12. Stay away from windows. Close some windows and keep  a few open so that the pressure is maintained
13. Check for air leaks. If you smell gas or can hear a leaking sound, open the windows immediately and exit the house. If possible, turn off the gas valve and report to the authorities
14. Help those in need of special help like elderly, children, physically challenged and your neighbours
15. Fishermen should keep their boats and rafts tied up in a safe place. They should also keep a radio set with extra batteries handy
16. Keep essential medicines in supply in case you are unable to get to a pharmacy during the cyclone.

Here is the list of Don’ts

Do not spread or believe in rumours. Stay calm, and do not panic

1. Do not attempt to ride or drive any vehicle during the cyclone
2. Steer clear from damaged buildings
3. Do not leave sharp objects loose in your house
4. Do not move any injured person unless it is safe to do so. It may cause more harm
5. Do not allow oil and any other flammable substances to spill. Clean them immediately
6. Stay away from broken electric wires and poles, and other sharp objects if you are outdoors
7. Fishermen should stay away from the sea

In Case of any Medical Emergency dial 1066

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